Meet Amanda
Amanda Nguyen is a legal professional and public servant with nearly a decade of experience working within Orange County’s criminal legal system. She currently serves as a Senior Paralegal with the Orange County Alternate Defender, where she works closely with attorneys, investigators, and clients to navigate complex legal matters, prepare cases for trial, and specializes in post-conviction relief efforts including expungements.
In addition, Amanda leads and manages an internship program within her office where she hires, trains and mentors undergraduate students pursuing careers in law and public service. Through the program, she provides hand-on exposure to the criminal legal system and helps cultivate the next generation of legal professionals committed to public service and justice reform.
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UPBRINGING
A lifelong Little Saigon resident, Amanda is the proud daughter of Vietnamese refugees who came to America seeking freedom and opportunity. Her mother arrived in 1975, and her father followed in 1980 as one of the many boat people fleeing post-war Vietnam. Raised alongside her younger brother, Amanda witnessed firsthand the sacrifices immigrant families make to build a better future. Those experiences instilled in her a deep appreciation for hard work, resilience, and community—values that continue to guide her commitment to serving Garden Grove.
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EDUCATION
In addition to her professional experience, Amanda brings a strong academic background in criminal justice and public policy.
She earned her Master of Science in Criminal Justice from Michigan State University, with a certification in Law Enforcement Intelligence and Analysis, where she conducted crime and policy research in partnership with the Michigan Justice Statistics Center and Michigan State Police.
She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Criminology, Law & Society from the University of California, Irvine and an Associate of Arts in Administration of Justice from Golden West College.
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WHY AMANDA'S RUNNING
Amanda believes effective local leadership requires thoughtful decision-making, accountability, and a practical understanding of how systems impact people’s daily lives. Her background in law, research, and public service has shaped her commitment to bringing fresh leadership, transparency, and responsive governance to the community. Outside of work, Amanda enjoys staying active, supporting local businesses, and connecting with residents across the community she hopes to serve.